Pronto Plumbing & Drains Inc.

Preventive maintenance frequency depends on the equipment and usage volume. As a general guideline: fryers and ovens should be inspected every 3-6 months; refrigeration equipment annually or semi-annually; ice machines every 6 months (including cleaning and sanitizing); exhaust hoods quarterly to semi-annually per NFPA 96; and dishwashers quarterly. High-volume operations benefit from more frequent service intervals.

The hi-limit switch is a safety device that cuts power when fryer temperature exceeds safe limits. Common causes: faulty thermostat allowing oil to overheat, failing hi-limit switch itself, improper temperature settings, low oil level exposing heating elements, or carbon buildup insulating heating elements. Never bypass the hi-limit switch — it prevents fires. Call a technician to diagnose the root cause.

High-temperature commercial dishwashers must reach 180°F (82°C) at the final rinse to achieve proper sanitization per NSF and health department standards. Low-temperature chemical sanitizing machines must maintain proper chemical concentrations (chlorine, iodine, or quaternary). If your high-temp machine isn't reaching 180°F, it's not properly sanitizing and may fail health inspection. Call a technician immediately.